Man Seeks Divorce: “My Wife Slaps Me At Will,” Says Olawale Idowu

In a dramatic plea at the Grade A Customary Court in Mapo, Ibadan, Olawale Idowu, a spare-part dealer, pleaded for the dissolution of his 13-year marriage to Yemisi, citing persistent violence. Idowu, residing in Okeolode Aremo area of Ibadan, expressed deep regret over the turbulent union.

“My lord, despite my enduring efforts, Yemisi remains troublesome. I left our home on December 16, 2023, after she violently attacked me at midnight. Yemisi slaps me and tears my clothes at her whim,” lamented Idowu, presenting torn clothes and court summons as evidence to the court.

Yemisi countered, claiming her husband’s abandonment stemmed from his involvement with another woman. “We had a fight in December. Idowu’s mother knew, but instead of resolving it, she threatened me. She even called the police, leading to my arrest,” she explained.

President of the court, Mrs. S.M. Akintayo, observed that there was no evidence of a bride price, essential for a lawful customary marriage in Nigeria. Consequently, Akintayo ruled that there was no legal marriage to dissolve.

Despite Idowu’s plea, Akintayo awarded custody of their three children to Yemisi, while ensuring Idowu retains visitation rights and shares responsibility for their welfare and education. The court ordered both parties to part ways amicably and restrained Yemisi from further harassment or threats towards Idowu.